Some representatives of Iran’s 11th Parliament viewed cryptocurrencies as an opportunity to counter sanctions, while others opposed them due to the high energy consumption of mining processes.
From the early murmurs of cryptocurrencies in Iran, this technology had its advocates and critics, including in the Islamic Consultative Assembly (Parliament). As cryptocurrencies became more recognized recently, the 11th Parliament showed increasing interest in this field. This report reviews statements by various parliament members during the 11th term, ranging from those who saw cryptocurrencies as a tool to counter sanctions to those who criticized the high energy demands of mining.
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The final two years of the 12th government coincided with the early years of the 11th Parliament, characterized by cautious approaches from officials. The matter was contentious, from President Hasan Rohani mandating ministries to pursue cryptocurrency mining to the Ministry of Energy temporarily banning mining due to blackouts. Members of the 11th Parliament, including those in the Economic and Energy Committees, held diverse views on cryptocurrencies. As the 12th Parliament elections were held in March of the previous year, and the new term officially begins in June, this report highlights key statements from members of the 11th Parliament over four years.
Mojtaba Tavangar
One of the most prominent representatives in cryptocurrency matters, Mojtaba Tavangar, the head of the Digital Economy Committee, frequently addressed modern technologies, blockchain, and cryptocurrencies compared to other parliament members.
Initially not a major supporter of cryptocurrencies, Tavangar sent a warning letter in March 2021 to then-President Hassan Rouhani and several ministers about Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. He wrote:
“Unfortunately, following the government’s problematic handling of the stock market, many unqualified investment leaders on social media are encouraging people to buy foreign cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin. Searches for these terms now surpass those for ‘stock market,’ indicating that uninformed individuals are seeking ways to enter this field. Additionally, the informal currency purchase for crypto investments will likely escalate. Domestic rial-based cryptocurrency purchases are also happening through payment gateways, potentially leading to issues like the Samen Coin case on a larger scale. Therefore, the government must swiftly block suspicious payment gateways and identify foreign crypto purchase pathways and online promoters to prevent severe economic and stock market harm.”
Cryptocurrencies as a Remedy for Stock Market Losses
With a jab at the historic stock market crash in August 2020, he told ISNA: “The environment in the first half of this year created a false expectation among people that they could get rich overnight and that the right way to wealth doesn’t require hard work. The losses suffered by people also led to feelings of falling behind some friends and relatives who had become wealthy in this way. To compensate, they sought a new tool, and cryptocurrencies entered the scene, presenting themselves as an easy path to wealth. Naturally, such a notion gains supporters in this context.” Tavangar, who did not foresee a bright future for cryptocurrencies, even likened their trading to stock market speculation, stating: “It’s interesting to note that some savvy individuals managed to sell their shares at peak prices in the stock market, then entered this market at the right time and are now selling their cryptocurrencies to this flood of eager buyers. As they say, they profit from fluctuations everywhere. In short, this market will likely attract many who are chasing the illusion of effortless wealth. But whose pockets this wealth will come from remains to be seen. Ultimately, the net outcome in the secondary cryptocurrency market may not be far from zero.”
Less than a year after being considered an opponent of digital currencies, Tavangar addressed the issue of power outages in the country in June 2021, as many officials blamed cryptocurrencies as the easiest scapegoat. In an interview with ISNA about the potential link between power cuts and cryptocurrency mining, he stated that the Parliament’s Digital Economy Committee was reviewing the matter, noting: “We examined this. The nominal power generation capacity in the country is 85,000 megawatts, while the actual capacity is 60,000 megawatts. The global electricity consumption of the cryptocurrency mining industry is 12,000 megawatts. The share of electricity consumed by licensed mining facilities in the country is 300 megawatts, and unlicensed facilities account for another 300 megawatts. Thus, the share of cryptocurrency mining in the country’s electricity production is 1%.” As the Chairman of the Parliament’s Energy Economics Committee, he further noted that the country’s share of the global cryptocurrency mining industry is less than five percent, emphasizing: “The cause of power outages is not cryptocurrency mining but the lack of investment and the aging distribution and production network.”
While this was not a full endorsement of cryptocurrency activities, a month later, Tavangar discussed the role of cryptocurrency mining in power cuts, saying: “Cryptocurrency mining has contributed to power outages but isn’t the sole cause. The power industry’s economy has fundamental problems. Many power plants are outdated, private sector participation is lacking, and necessary investments for modernizing and expanding power plant capacity have not been made in recent years.” He also announced the suspension of licensed cryptocurrency mining operations until the power grid stabilizes and mentioned efforts to identify unlicensed mining farms. He added that detecting such farms through monitoring electricity consumption is feasible for the Ministry of Energy.
Tavangar later addressed the Attorney General in a letter, criticizing the “neglect of the Central Bank in policy-making for cryptocurrencies,” which he blamed for capital outflows from the country. He emphasized the need to establish a suitable framework for the lawful operation of those interested in this field.
Criticism of Mandatory “E-namad” for Cryptocurrency Exchanges
In March 2021, Shaparak Payment Services Company instructed payment service providers to suspend electronic payment services for merchants offering goods and services that conflict with the laws of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Central Bank. Cryptocurrency trading websites were cited among such businesses. A few months after the Rohani administration blocked domestic cryptocurrency exchanges lacking “E-namad” (an e-commerce certification), Tavangar criticized the move as violating existing accreditation laws for online businesses and called for parliamentary intervention. In December 2021, Tavangar addressed a letter to Seyed Ehsan Khandoozi, Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance, and Ali Salehabadi, then-Governor of the Central Bank. He criticized the mandatory “E-namad” requirement for online businesses: “Currently, one million online businesses in the country are verified and use banking services. Only 60,000 have ‘E-namad,’ and many businesses cannot obtain it under the current rules.” Regarding the Central Bank’s directive to block payment gateways of cryptocurrency exchanges without “E-namad,” he stated: “The previous administration’s decision violates existing laws on internet business accreditation. This issue falls within the purview of government officials, requiring close parliamentary oversight and intervention.”
Tavangar gradually began defending cryptocurrencies, emphasizing that the digital economy cannot be managed through decrees: “Numerous directives over the years aimed at restricting the digital economy have failed, causing policy failures and economic harm. This approach will undoubtedly lead to similar results.” In March 2022, he responded to comments by Naser Mousavi Largani, a member of the Parliamentary Budget Commission, who suggested that cryptocurrency trading led to capital outflows and proposed a plan to block cryptocurrency platforms. Tavangar tweeted: “The Parliament has no plans to do this. Instead, we aim to legalize the cryptocurrency landscape in the country.”
In August 2022, at the TechnoBlock International Conference, Tavangar highlighted the transformative potential of blockchain technology: “The world is on the verge of a digital revolution driven by blockchain technology, which many experts believe could have a broader impact on human life than the internet’s development.” He added: “In economic development, this technology has brought about significant changes. The global exchange of cryptocurrencies among individuals has created a new ecosystem, challenging the traditional global financial system. For example, cryptocurrencies facilitate international payments, making transactions cheaper, faster, and more secure. This is particularly advantageous for countries like Iran and Russia, which face limited access to international payment systems like SWIFT.”
Tavangar acknowledged the challenges of blockchain technology: “Like any technology, blockchain has negative aspects that require management. For instance, while government manipulation of cryptocurrencies is impossible, unlike fiat currencies, cryptocurrencies can destabilize a country’s macroeconomic situation and become targets for speculative investors and large players. Therefore, a flexible regulatory framework and oversight are essential.”
Parliament and Government Aligned on Supporting Digital Currency Development
A few months later, in February 2023, when opposition to digital currencies was no longer feasible, and the Parliament and government were generally aligned in supporting their development in the country, Tavangar, in a meeting with Anatoly Aksakov, Chairman of the Financial Market Committee of the Russian State Duma, discussed the use of digital currencies for financial exchanges between the two countries. He stated: “There are various solutions for conducting international financial exchanges, including the SWIFT interbank transfer network, bilateral or multilateral monetary agreements, and clearinghouses. New technologies such as blockchain and cryptocurrencies have emerged alongside these traditional approaches. These modern technologies have developed more efficient mechanisms than traditional approaches.” According to Tavangar, “The primary function of this technology is to facilitate the transfer and settlement of tangible and intangible assets worldwide in fractions of a second with minimal transaction fees.”
In March 2023, at the Ninth Annual Conference on Electronic Banking and Payment Systems, Tavangar emphasized that cryptocurrencies and blockchain-based applications are an undeniable reality for today and the future. He said: “We must define precise legal frameworks in our country for the creation, issuance, storage, and exchange of cryptocurrencies. We should also create a supportive environment for research, development, and commercialization of various blockchain-based capabilities. Fragmented decisions, many stakeholders, and conflicting and sometimes contradictory directives and regulations have caused confusion among experts and investors in the cryptocurrency and blockchain space. We need to define different types of assets comprehensively and adopt a coherent and transparent legal approach to this ecosystem.” He also noted: “We are determined to include the recognition of cryptocurrencies in the Seventh Development Plan and to require the government to present a comprehensive bill for cryptocurrency and blockchain legislation within a specific timeframe.”
These days, Tavangar is regarded as a supporter of digital currencies and blockchain technology, a voice notably absent from the Eleventh Parliament.
Mohammadreza Pour-Ebrahimi
Mohammadreza Pour-Ebrahimi, consistently elected to Iran’s Islamic Consultative Assembly, served as Chairman of the Economic Committee in both the Tenth and Eleventh Parliaments. In this capacity, he frequently commented on digital currencies.
2017, during the Tenth Parliament, Pour-Ebrahimi expressed a negative stance toward Bitcoin, warning about its potential expansion: “Contracts made through Bitcoin do not comply with Islamic and economic principles and require oversight by relevant authorities, especially the Central Bank. He believed that Bitcoin not only lacked alignment with economic principles but also posed a security risk for traders, urging caution among businesspeople. Pour-Ebrahimi highlighted the absence of clear mechanisms and regulations for managing Bitcoin and warned citizens to exercise greater vigilance to avoid future problems.
In February 2018, he reiterated his opposition, stating: “We do not approve of Bitcoin due to the absence of legal frameworks for its entry. Engaging in virtual transactions that lack Central Bank recognition is a highly risky endeavor. While these activities may appear attractive to some, they lack reliability and credibility.”
Supporting Other Digital Currencies
Apart from Bitcoin, Pour-Ebrahimi had a good understanding of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. He stated that under the current economic conditions, the potential of cryptocurrencies could be utilized securely. He remarked: “Bitcoin is one example of digital currencies, and other systems among them can be utilized to create a framework to assist in this area. Under the current circumstances in the country, I believe this digital currency can become our official foundation for action with proper planning by senior and macroeconomic managers, which would be a valuable initiative.”
In an interview with Tasnim News Agency, he also mentioned the potential of utilizing cryptocurrencies and said: “The potential of cryptocurrencies can be leveraged at a macro-national level between countries. Creating and using digital currencies in transactions between countries could, with a national approach, help bypass the dominant currency, namely the dollar, and facilitate economic operations between countries. From this perspective, this initiative could represent a new event in the economic field.”
Pour-Ebrahimi further announced the Economic Commission of Parliament’s involvement in the issue of cryptocurrencies and stated: “Given the developments and field events in recent months regarding cryptocurrencies within the country’s executive system, which are becoming increasingly prevalent, we believe this matter provides an opportunity. It could be used to free Iran’s economy from the dominance of the dollar and overcome settlement issues with some European banks. Therefore, parallel to the Central Bank, the Economic Commission of Parliament has initiated its studies on cryptocurrencies. Our goal is ultimately to define a platform that aligns with the monetary framework and facilitates access to the transfer of our currency funds. This initiative represents our agreement with other countries within the framework of digital currencies and reflects a governance approach we are actively pursuing.”
Meanwhile, during discussions about the launch of the digital rial in a joint project led by the Research Institute for Communications and Information Technology, the Monetary and Banking Research Institute of the Central Bank, and the Post Bank of Iran, under the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology of the Twelfth Administration, Pour-Ebrahimi welcomed the project and commented: “The Ministry of Communications has been more proactive in this field than the Central Bank, effectively taking its place. However, the Central Bank should regard digital currencies as one of the key tools for economic transactions, circumventing sanctions, and replacing real and physical currencies, and it should have initiated the development of digital currencies itself.”
Using Digital Currencies to Bypass the Dollar and Sanctions
Pour-Ebrahimi, at that time in May 2018, during a meeting with the Chairman of the Committee of the Federation Council of Russia, stated that Iran views the use of digital currencies as a way to break free from the dollar’s influence. He commented on cryptocurrencies: “Using this currency is one of the ways we can bypass the dollar and use it as an alternative to the SWIFT system. We have informed the Central Bank of Iran that it is necessary to start working on digital currencies and develop the required software. If we can accomplish this, we will be the first country to use digital currency for trade.” The following months saw the continued emphasis by the head of the Economic Commission of the Iranian Parliament on the use of digital currencies to circumvent sanctions.
This parliamentarian identified cryptocurrency as a solution to bypass the U.S. banking system. He stated: “By utilizing digital currency, we can bypass the banking process managed globally by the U.S. Federal Reserve. With the agreement of Iranian traders and businessmen with traders and businessmen from other countries, we can agree on a standard digital currency and conduct economic transactions through it.” The Chairman of the Parliament’s Economic Commission, pointing out that new initiatives have emerged in monetary agreements, including digital currencies, added: “We have signed bilateral monetary agreements with Turkey and Russia, and part of this work has been done. A country like Russia, like Iran, is under U.S. sanctions, and now, with the ongoing U.S.-China trade war, special conditions have arisen. We must be able to separate from the dollar and implement monetary agreements with other countries, also using the blockchain platform.”
Allocation of Economic Commission Meeting to the Topic of Digital Currencies
In July 2018, a session of the Economic Commission of the Iranian Parliament was dedicated to digital currencies. Pour-Ebrahimi stated: “There needs to be transparency regarding how individuals and legal entities, with the production of digital currencies, which have facilitated economic activities for Iranians through foreign messaging platforms, can operate. Additionally, what is the country’s capacity for domestically and internationally producing digital currencies?” He emphasized that digital currency in Iran should be regulated. He announced that two weeks later, the Central Bank would provide a draft of regulations and rules that adhere to transparency in Iran’s economy, anti-money laundering laws, combating the financing of terrorism, and other relevant provisions. He further stated that within two months, clear and defined regulations would be established to determine Iran’s position on digital currencies and the possibility of using them. This event occurred a few months later, in February.
Pour-Ebrahimi also said in an interview with the Ana News Agency in May 2019: “In certain exchanges where we need currency or when we want to settle a trade, we have suggested new methods like digital currency. The framework for using digital currency is clear, and the operational licenses for mining have been finalized, with the Central Bank agreeing to it.”
When the issue of electricity consumption for Bitcoin mining was raised, Pour-Ebrahimi once again expressed his opposition to this digital currency. In July 2019, he mentioned that the increased activity of Bitcoin mining (digital currency production) was raising electricity consumption in the country. He stated: “The low price and almost free cost for producing digital currencies has caused Bitcoin farms to increase daily. Therefore, to prevent excessive electricity consumption, the government must rationalize the pricing of electricity for them so that, in addition to enabling economic activities and earning foreign currency for the country, the electricity costs of these companies are determined according to their usage, and the Ministry of Energy is not harmed.” He also noted: “We are not going to shut down the miners’ activities, but their electricity prices need to be rationalized so that this new problem in the electricity sector is solved and power outages, especially during the summer, are prevented. Currently, they are taking advantage of Iran’s electricity!”
Continued Opposition to Bitcoin
Pour-Ebrahimi’s opposition to Bitcoin continued during the 11th Parliament. In February 2021, in an interview with Mizan News Agency, he referred to the investments some individuals were making in the digital currency sector, stating: “Our emphasis is that people should not invest in cryptocurrencies that are not produced domestically.” He explained that investing in Bitcoin carries risks, emphasizing that the risk associated with Bitcoin investment is very high. Pour-Ebrahimi firmly stated: “In the case of cryptocurrencies not produced domestically, it is entirely unclear who the counterparty is or how the settlement conditions will be, which is why this action is high-risk. Nevertheless, the Parliament and the Economic Commission have entered into the discussion of facilitating the process of producing cryptocurrencies domestically, under the supervision of the Central Bank and the Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Trade.”
Although Pour-Ebrahimi did not join the group of Bitcoin supporters in the 11th Parliament, his positive view of cryptocurrencies remained. In March 2021, in an interview with Mizan News Agency, referring to the determination of the legal framework for digital currency activities in the Economic Commission of Parliament, he said: “The Economic Commission has finalized a report on this issue, and this report has recently been sent to the Presidium of Parliament for reading. After reviewing the budget bill, this report will be read in the plenary session. In the finalized report, we emphasized that anyone who produces cryptocurrency should directly provide information about their activities to the Central Bank so that it can process the settlement through authorized exchanges, which is not currently in place.”
He also noted: “One of the most important actions determined in this regard is related to the nature of cryptocurrency production. The production of these currencies is related to monetary issues, and this matter could help us in times of sanctions. However, the involvement of the Central Bank and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance is necessary to prevent issues such as money laundering in this sector.”
People’s Entry into the Cryptocurrency Sector is Not Permissible
Although Pour-Ebrahimi emphasized the potential of using cryptocurrencies to bypass sanctions, he did not consider it permissible for people to enter this sector. He stated: “We believe that, under the current circumstances, this capacity helps alleviate the limitations imposed by sanctions and supports the country’s foreign exchange reserves by utilizing energy capacity. The Central Bank has recently taken steps to manage the cryptocurrency space, but we ask people not to enter the cryptocurrency sector under any circumstances.”
With the start of 2021, Pour-Ebrahimi’s emphasis on regulating cryptocurrencies in Iran continued. On April 5th, he said: “The initial report of the Economic Commission of Parliament regarding cryptocurrencies has been prepared following Article 45 of the Internal Regulations of Parliament. This report is expected to be read soon in the plenary session. Under this report, decisions have been made regarding the activities of cryptocurrencies in the country, including legal provisions concerning cryptocurrency activities. They also specify the responsibilities of the Ministries of Energy and Industry, Mines, and Trade in this regard. Through these decisions, we aim to establish specific frameworks and laws for cryptocurrency activities in the country. For example, the Ministry of Economic Affairs should oversee these activities to prevent money laundering, and the Ministry of Oil will be tasked with ensuring that power plants receive the necessary resources to produce electricity.” He emphasized: “The goal of the Economic Commission is to create an economic activity in the country, utilize the country’s energy potential, and ensure that all these efforts positively impact the national economy while ensuring that these activities are regulated.”
Efforts to Develop Domestic Cryptocurrency
Although Pour-Ebrahimi opposed foreign digital currencies, he expressed a favorable opinion regarding a national digital currency (which, to date, has not materialized). Speaking to Mizan, he stated: “We do not have control over the origin, foundation, or decision-making related to Bitcoin. However, cryptocurrencies produced domestically, under the supervision of relevant bodies and within a legal framework, are good. If we create our cryptocurrency under supervision and within the law, it will undoubtedly attract customers. On the other hand, we do not endorse foreign cryptocurrencies because they involve high activity risks.”
Pour-Ebrahimi continued to emphasize using cryptocurrency potential to bypass sanctions, noting the involvement of the Parliament’s Economic Commission in regulating this commercial activity. He commented: “Cryptocurrency can fundamentally serve as a tool for circumventing and neutralizing sanctions. It can enable effective utilization of the nation’s energy resources, ultimately converting such use into national income. The commission’s engagement stems from the need to harness this capacity for the country’s economy and revenue generation. Cryptocurrencies can act as tools for circumventing sanctions, which is why the Economic Commission has taken this matter seriously.”
In May 2021, Pour-Ebrahimi, in an interview with Fars News Agency, referred to the issue of cryptocurrencies and the necessity of organizing this sector due to its widespread nature. He stated: “The issue of cryptocurrencies is an undeniable phenomenon in the global economic sphere, and the goal of the Parliament and the Economic Commission’s involvement in this matter is to organize activities in this sector. We cannot ignore, eliminate, or confront the issue of cryptocurrencies in our country’s economy; rather, we must manage it.” He emphasized the need to manage cryptocurrencies due to their potential use in the country’s economy, saying: “Managing this sector minimizes its potential negative consequences. This means we must maximize cryptocurrency’s benefits and minimize the harms. We should use this capacity to bypass sanctions to maximize benefits. The law regulating the production of cryptocurrencies within the country is also being finalized in Parliament and is on the agenda for the plenary session.”
Continued Opposition to Cryptocurrency Transactions
He expressed opposition to cryptocurrency transactions, stating: “In the area of cryptocurrency transactions, which mostly have foreign origins, our concern is that due to the failure of the Central Bank and Ministry of Economic Affairs to fulfill their duties regarding websites that operate through payment gateways under PSD frameworks authorized by the Central Bank, no supervision is being conducted. This is an issue we need to address and manage. Our request from the Central Bank was not to leave this matter unresolved, as it is a serious concern. They should explain what kind of supervision has been conducted over websites that officially use payment gateways of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which are under the supervision of PSDs and authorized by the Central Bank, in recent years.”
The head of the Economic Commission of Parliament emphasized the need for exchanges to obtain licenses, saying: “Our main issue with the Central Bank has been that anyone who wants to operate should be required to obtain a license, just like exchange houses. This organization would help us clarify financial transactions, determine taxation issues, and safeguard people’s assets. However, instead of managing this issue, the Central Bank and Ministry of Economic Affairs decided to halt the matter, while our fundamental concern has never been to stop these activities since their potential in the national economy, especially under sanctions, can be beneficial. The Central Bank, by misunderstanding the situation, has interpreted managing the issue of cryptocurrencies as halting it. Instead of stopping and denying the issue, the Central Bank could manage it by regulating and licensing cryptocurrency websites, as they can play a role in the national economy.” He also stressed that “an adversarial approach to this sector and banning the activities of Iranian entities who are willing to be organized and accept oversight will lead them to resort to underground and ‘black market’ activities.”
Pour-Ebrahimi referred to the Central Bank’s request to block several cryptocurrency exchanges, which was sent to the Committee for Determining Criminal Content, and stated that these actions resulted from the Central Bank’s adversarial stance toward the cryptocurrency phenomenon. The head of the Economic Commission of Parliament explained that without considering the regulation of capable domestic sectors, such measures would drive people toward foreign exchanges, which presents challenges. He said: “It seems some executive managers, in the final days of the government, are trying to frustrate the regulatory process and anger the public, and the judiciary must intervene and resist such actions and requests with economic and security consequences.”
Meanwhile, Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, the Speaker of Parliament, had emphasized blocking payment gateways of unauthorized cryptocurrency exchanges. This statement triggered reactions from active cryptocurrency users. Even the Iranian Blockchain Association stated in response, saying: “The Cryptocurrency Exchange Working Group of the Blockchain Association, before anything else, condemns any attempt to block websites, applications, and platforms in Iran offering cryptocurrency buying and selling services, as well as their Rial payment gateways. In our view, ‘blocking is not a solution!’ Recent experiences show that any abrupt blockages and adversarial approaches toward new technologies not only bring widespread repercussions and high costs for the country and people but have never been successful, either. Now, everyone knows that technology will eventually find its way, and the people’s need to move forward and keep pace with global technological trends cannot be stopped or blocked.”
Cryptocurrencies Not Included in the Anti-Smuggling Law
In May 2020, just days before the end of the 10th Parliament’s term, representatives reviewed the draft of the Anti-Smuggling of Goods and Currency Law amendment, determining the definitions of currency smuggling. It was announced that “all cryptocurrencies (digital currencies) are considered currency under this law, and the crimes, violations, sanctions, and all regulations related to currency in this law also apply to them.”
However, this draft was not approved by the Guardian Council.
In this regard, Pour-Ebrahimi, in July 2021, stated that the area of cryptocurrencies is considered a new phenomenon in the economic system and explained: “We tried to address cryptocurrency-related topics separately because incorporating them into the Anti-Smuggling Law might cause issues in definitions, content, and the handling procedures. Due to the initial objections raised by the Guardian Council and the reviews conducted in the commission, it was decided that this issue should be separated from the Anti-Smuggling Law.” He also noted: “We separated the issue of combating violations in the cryptocurrency sector from the Anti-Smuggling Law because we aim to create a comprehensive law that includes all the necessary regulations, defining violations, money laundering, and issues related to the government’s lack of oversight on currency outflows in a separate legal framework.”
In September 2021, he announced that Parliament was working to legalize digital currencies. He said: “In Parliament, we are working to establish the legal status of cryptocurrencies in the country so that the responsibilities of ministries and institutions in this regard can be clearly defined. The Central Bank, as the decision-making authority in the cryptocurrency sector, the Ministry of Economy in the fight against money laundering, and the Ministry of Industry, Mine, and Trade in terms of licensing cryptocurrency mining farms must be involved in this process. The Ministry of Energy will handle the necessary electricity supply, and the Ministry of Communications will manage the virtual infrastructure. Due to public concerns about the sources entering the country and the high risks associated with foreign cryptocurrencies, the framework for foreign cryptocurrencies has also been specified.”
The Necessity of Organizing Cryptocurrencies
In an interview with the Islamic Republic of Iran News Agency (IRNA), Pour-Ebrahimi stated that cryptocurrencies are an undeniable reality in the country’s economic matters. He criticized the government’s delay in entering the digital currency sector: “Unfortunately, in previous administrations, neither the Ministry of Economy nor the Central Bank had a clear plan for managing the financial circulation of these cryptocurrencies. To provide oversight in this sector, there must be serious organization, and the responsibilities of each institution must be clearly defined.” He added: “Instead of always being viewed as an opportunity alongside management for the economic system, cryptocurrencies, due to the lack of management in the 12th government and the lack of planning for their regulation, have become a threat to the country’s economic system.” Pour-Ebrahimi at that time announced a proposal for organizing cryptocurrencies in Parliament, stating: “After presenting the Economic Commission’s report on cryptocurrencies, the commission, with the aim of transparency, has prioritized a plan for organizing cryptocurrencies in the national economy, which will be reviewed and put to a vote in the plenary session after approval in the commission.” He clarified that the goal of this law was to ensure transparency, revenue generation, management, and oversight of financial flows in the country and to assist in organizing the cryptocurrency mining industry domestically, with a focus on using clean energy in Parliament.
This eventually occurred on September 14, 2021, when the Economic Commission’s report on digital currencies was read in the plenary session of Parliament following Article 45 of the internal regulations. The report emphasized that neglecting digital currencies could have harmful consequences.
Pour-Ebrahimi elaborated on this report: “Based on this report, we have drafted a plan to define the regulations and guidelines for cryptocurrencies in the country’s economy. This plan includes the responsibilities of the Central Bank as a key authority in foreign exchange transactions, the Ministry of Economy in combating money laundering, and the Ministry of Industry, Mine, and Trade regarding issuing licenses for domestic cryptocurrencies. The content of this plan outlines the laws and regulations that will allow both domestically originated-and foreign-origin cryptocurrencies to operate. For example, one of the issues with foreign-origin cryptocurrencies concerns exchanges operating in this field.”
He emphasized that one of the bill’s key points was the organization of exchanges operating in the virtual space that provide services for cryptocurrencies: “Currently, this area is almost abandoned, and there is no oversight. We strongly advise the public not to engage with foreign cryptocurrencies due to the lack of regulations and the high risks involved. However, we will soon try to develop laws and regulations that will bring structure to this sector.”
Government Officials Entering the Cryptocurrency Issue
In December 2021, after the start of the 13th government, Pour-Ebrahimi announced that government officials had actively entered the cryptocurrency issue and stated: “Government officials have practically entered the cryptocurrency sector, and Mohsen Rezaee, the Vice President for Economic Affairs, has become the responsible figure for this issue in the government. We have presented our actions to the government and received their feedback. The government has told us to proceed with legislation in this area. For this reason, we have prepared a draft in the commission for this issue, advising the government to formulate the necessary regulations.”
Ambiguity Regarding the Status of Cryptocurrencies in the Capital Gains Tax Proposal
On May 1, 2023, members of the Iranian Parliament approved Article 12 of the “Tax on Speculation and Gambling” bill, which includes the taxation of assets such as real estate, cars, gold, silver, jewelry, fiat currencies, and cryptocurrencies under the capital gains tax. While many active cryptocurrency users opposed this proposal, Pourabrahimi was one of its supporters. In response to criticism of the law, he told the House of Parliament News Agency: “The tax under this plan will not affect 99% of the people. Some are trying to create a psychological atmosphere against this bill to prevent the creation of a transparent economic flow in the country.” Defending the proposal, he emphasized: “This bill will not affect the general public in any way, and it is the speculators who are creating a psychological war to discourage the people.”
This comes after the Guardian Council had previously raised objections in December 2021 to another bill from Parliament titled the “Banking Bill” due to references to cryptocurrencies without a clear legal definition for digital currencies and crypto-assets. Additionally, on December 19, 2021, the Expediency Discernment Council detailed sections of this bill that were contrary to the general policies of the legislative system, noting that terms like “crypto-coins, cryptocurrencies, and authorized cryptocurrencies” conflicted with the general policies of the system.
In this regard, Pour-Ebrahimi explained: “As long as we don’t resolve the definitions in a fundamental and comprehensive law, the Guardian Council will remove any reference to cryptocurrencies as a starting point from the agenda and will not approve it. Therefore, any mention of cryptocurrencies in the capital gains tax proposal is contingent on the main issue being addressed.”
The capital gains tax proposal went through a long legislative process, facing objections from the Guardian Council. In November 2023, Pour-Ebrahimi announced that the Economic Commission’s report addressing the objections from the Guardian Council was ready. He hoped that, if approved by the Guardian Council, the law would be enacted in December. However, this did not happen.
After the Parliament addressed the objections from the Guardian Council, the proposal was eventually passed in a form that excluded cryptocurrencies from the asset classes subject to capital gains tax. Owning and holding cryptocurrencies would not be subject to the tax. However, the Expediency Discernment Council reviewed the Parliament’s decision on the tax exemption for digital currencies and deemed it discriminatory and inconsistent with the general policies of the legislative system. While the Council agreed with other amendments to the speculation tax bill, it opposed the section regarding the tax exemption for cryptocurrencies. As a result, the taxation of cryptocurrencies remains uncertain.
The Country’s Cryptocurrency Situation Should Not Be Unresolved
On November 13, 2023, in an interview with Fardaye-Eghtesad, the Chairman of the Economic Commission of the Iranian Parliament criticized the Central Bank’s approach to cryptocurrencies and the limitations imposed on rial deposits in domestic cryptocurrency exchanges. He stated: “We cannot leave the country’s situation regarding cryptocurrencies unresolved, and we must use this sector to overcome the conditions of sanctions. It is a mistake by the Central Bank to define a path for cryptocurrencies that fundamentally denies the importance of digital currencies. We have not restricted the government; the government can set appropriate executive regulations for cryptocurrencies under existing laws.”
The restrictions on rial deposits to domestic exchanges were such that cryptocurrency withdrawals were limited for 48 hours if the deposit was less than 10 million rials. Before that, in December 2019, it was announced that a person could only make a non-face-to-face banking transaction of up to 1 billion rials (100 million rials) within 24 hours.
Pour-Ebrahimi, who played a significant role in cryptocurrency-related legislation in the Iranian Parliament, did not secure a seat in the 12th Parliament.
Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf
Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament in 2021, emphasized the need to block payment gateways of unauthorized cryptocurrency exchanges. In May 2021, he sent an urgent letter to Abdolnasser Hemmati, the Governor of the Central Bank, and Farhad Dejpasand, the then Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance, requesting clarity on the situation of digital currencies. Ghalibaf’s letter urgently asked the Central Bank and the government to clarify Iran’s cryptocurrency regulations and take steps to prevent “people’s losses.” The letter specifically requested that the Central Bank avoid the provision of payment gateways to unauthorized cryptocurrency exchanges until the necessary licenses were granted. Furthermore, the Central Bank was asked to take responsibility if people incurred losses due to using payment gateways from unlicensed exchanges.
In the letter, Ghalibaf acknowledged the emerging role of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies: “With the emergence of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, futurist studies have indicated that this technology may define the future. However, some experts point out serious issues with the logic of continuing cryptocurrency operations, including their decentralized nature and their conflict with the sovereignty of national currencies and economic order, as well as creating a platform for illegal activities. Some even view this as an ambiguous phenomenon, where its original creator has not introduced himself, potentially leading to a major transfer of wealth from certain countries and global economic actors to others, which could result in a poor outcome for those involved. In this context, cryptocurrency investors, particularly those involved in digital currency exchanges, have not had their situation clearly defined, and many people, based on extensive advertising in the sector, have invested their money into this highly ambiguous market. There is also limited information regarding the security of the cryptocurrency exchange platforms.”
Ghalibaf acknowledged the significant role of cryptocurrencies in daily transactions, stating: “According to statistics published by cryptocurrency exchange websites, the daily volume of cryptocurrency exchanges is even on par with the daily stock transactions in the country’s capital markets. However, the main authorities in this field, namely the Central Bank and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance, have not taken effective measures regarding the large amounts deposited into digital exchange accounts. Simply announcing the mission of cryptocurrency exchanges does not absolve the Central Bank and Ministry of Finance of their responsibility. Previous experiences with unauthorized financial institutions and similar actions by the Central Bank, as well as platforms like Samen Coin, which led to the loss of many people’s funds and caused significant financial and social costs to the country, should be considered. All of these issues exist although, according to the country’s laws and regulations, the operation of exchange platforms is only legal with a license granted by the Central Bank.”
Request to Block Payment Gateways of Unlicensed Cryptocurrency Exchanges
In this letter, Ghalibaf called for blocking the provision of payment gateways to unlicensed cryptocurrency exchanges, stating: “One of the major concerns of economic activists and parliamentarians is that despite the illegal status of digital exchanges, while in March 2021, the Central Bank instructed payment facilitators to refrain from providing payment gateways to these sites, the main payment gateway providers, particularly those under the supervision of Shaparak, are still offering services to these sites. This is even though Shaparak must provide payment gateways only to sites with an electronic trust symbol. If the Rial payments made by users on these sites are converted into cryptocurrencies mined abroad, this could lead to a massive outflow of currency from the country. In this regard, the Central Bank must provide an expert report and appropriate forecasts. In any case, it is crucial that the Central Bank, as the main authority in the country’s monetary system, swiftly offer a reliable forecast of the future of this technology and its impact on the economy, particularly the monetary system and transactions, and formulate the necessary regulations for cryptocurrency exchanges and activities. Additionally, the Iranian Parliament’s reminders to the Central Bank should include a suitable explanation as to why payment gateways are still being provided to sites that the Central Bank has classified as unauthorized. If people suffer losses due to payment gateways being available on these sites, the Central Bank must be held accountable.”
However, this letter was met with a response from the FinTech Association, which sent a letter to the Speaker of Parliament and the Governor of the Central Bank, urging the need for a correct decision-making process in this field. The letter highlighted the potential negative consequences of hasty decisions. It stated: “Due to inappropriate translations of technical terms such as ‘cryptocurrency’ or ‘cryptocurrency exchange,’ the regulatory authority of this sector may mistakenly be assumed to be solely the Central Bank. However, comprehensive review and correct decision-making in this area require the participation of various institutions, along with the involvement of the stakeholders in this sector, so that a comprehensive and optimal decision can be made. Pressuring a single institution like the Central Bank to address all concerns will unlikely lead to the best outcomes.” Some members of parliament also opposed this issue, but it ultimately did not come to fruition.
Agreement on Taxing Cryptocurrencies
Ghalibaf also commented on the taxation of cryptocurrencies at that time, stating: “Given the large volume of financial transactions occurring on these platforms, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance and the Tax Administration must promptly create tax files for the operators of these platforms and urgently report this to the Parliament. Furthermore, the Ministry of Economy and the Supreme Council of Securities, in which the Central Bank is also a member, should provide appropriate solutions for addressing the numerous individuals, especially those investing in and purchasing cryptocurrencies based on price fluctuations, and set up the necessary tools for this purpose. This should be done to create minimal challenges for the management and policymaking of the country’s monetary and foreign exchange system.”
In a public session on June 29, 2021, Ghalibaf discussed cryptocurrencies: “The issue of cryptocurrency production falls under the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade. If it is considered a currency, the Central Bank should oversee its exchange; if it is considered a digital asset, the Ministry of Economy is responsible, and the provision of energy for it falls under the Ministry of Energy. Our question to the government is, why is there no bill presented to the Parliament to regulate this sector, which involves four ministries, particularly when it consumes 2,000 megawatts of electricity and generates significant digital or foreign exchange assets? In such important matters, a government bill should be presented, and unfortunately, the government has failed to submit a bill. This is the responsibility of the government. The 11th government criticized the previous administration for delegating the issuance of licenses for credit institutions to the Ministry of Cooperatives, which eventually led to confusion and 36 trillion tomans of loss to the public treasury. Today, we are facing the same confusion in the cryptocurrency sector.” He further emphasized the necessity of a government bill to regulate cryptocurrency mining, stating: “We in Parliament have a draft prepared, but we believe the government should submit a bill on this crucial issue, or at least provide feedback during the review of the draft. We expect the government to take serious action in this area.”
Following these statements, in September 2021, the issue of cryptocurrency regulation and activities related to mining was discussed by the members of Parliament and the specialized committees.
Ghalibaf, being one of the elected members of the 12th Parliament, will likely have further opinions on cryptocurrencies in the new legislative period.
Mojtaba Rezakhah
The use of digital currencies and Bitcoin mining to circumvent sanctions, which many experts had emphasized from the beginning, also found its way into Parliament. One of the representatives who highlighted the opportunities for using cryptocurrencies was Mojtaba Rezakhah. In July 2020, during an open session of the Iranian Parliament, he said: “Due to sanctions, we cannot sell our oil, and in this situation, the use of digital currencies will lead to economic growth for the country.” He also mentioned that efforts were being made to prepare a draft law on using digital currencies.
Eventually, in October 2020, a proposal was presented to the Iranian Parliament, under which the government would be required to provide electricity and gas at industrial rates for cryptocurrency mining under specific conditions. In this document, digital currencies were referred to as a “strategic product” that is “sanction-proof” and could be used to reduce dependency on oil exports and mitigate the effects of “unjust” sanctions.
Rezakhah is not present in the 12th term of the Iranian Parliament.
Naser Mousavi Largani
Naser Mousavi Largani, a Parliament’s Budget and Planning Committee member, has been a critic of cryptocurrencies. He has argued that buying and selling digital currencies leads to capital flight from the country. For this reason, Parliament has been working on a proposal to block cryptocurrency exchanges. In December 2021, in an interview with the IRNA news agency, he said: “Digital currencies, known as cryptocurrencies, have specific objectives, and their creators aim to achieve these goals by encouraging people to buy these unbacked currencies. These currencies are fully designed to paralyze the economy and remove the central bank’s control over the country’s monetary and financial structure. Given the current evidence, it must be said that cryptocurrencies are part of a global conspiracy led by the United States, as they create conditions for people to escape from under the government’s scrutiny and conduct illegal activities in such an environment.” He also stated that buying and selling these currencies is aiding the enemies, saying: “Dear citizens, know that by buying, selling, and using cryptocurrencies, you are helping the enemies of this land because by doing so, you are causing large amounts of capital to leave the country and disrupting the country’s economic system.” He added: “We must act quickly to stop this from happening, and all activities and use of these tools must be halted. Suppose we don’t take action now to regulate and prevent cryptocurrencies. In that case, we will soon witness disastrous effects on the country’s economy, as large amounts of liquidity are leaving the country by buying and selling these currencies. For this reason, we intend to introduce a proposal in Parliament to block cryptocurrency exchange platforms and pursue it until it is resolved.” This statement led to a reaction from Mojtaba Tavangar, who clarified that Parliament has no such plans and is seeking to legalize the country’s digital currency space.
However, before these comments and during the 10th term of Parliament, Mousavi Largani had a different stance. In December 2018, he stated: “To use digital currencies, we must conduct extensive research and studies. We cannot stand against sanctions solely with digital currencies, but by evaluating these currencies in every aspect, we can determine the level of their usefulness.” In July 2019, in an interview with Tasnim, referring to the growing use of Bitcoin in various countries, he said: “As long as there are no clear laws on the use of digital currencies, setting up Bitcoin mining farms will only harm the country’s economy.” He further stated that the government should urgently present a draft bill to Parliament to regulate digital currencies. He added: “First, the necessary infrastructure for legislative and judicial bodies should be established, and then we can enter the digital currency space. Expanding the market for these activities would be a huge mistake until the detailed and practical framework for using digital currencies is implemented.”
Mousavi Largani is not present in the 12th term of Parliament, so it remains to be seen what his views on digital currencies will be in this new period.
Jafar Ghaderi
Jafar Ghaderi, a member of the Parliament’s Program and Budget Commission, supports digital currencies. In November 2020, he announced the preparation of a draft law to regulate digital currencies and their mining in the country. He argued that proper legislation in this area could address issues such as foreign currency shortages, sanctions, excess winter electricity consumption, and summer electricity shortages. He stated: “Cryptocurrencies provide an opportunity for the country to earn approximately four to five billion dollars in foreign currency.”
He also highlighted the electricity supply challenges in the country, stating: “In the summer, we face a severe electricity shortage during peak hours, and in the winter, we have an excess of electricity production. This results in electricity shortages during the summer, while in winter, power plants do not operate efficiently due to reduced demand. A law to regulate digital currencies and mining could help utilize the surplus electricity in the winter for cryptocurrency mining, which would contribute to meeting some of our foreign currency needs.
Moreover, during the summer, mining operations could help provide electricity to the grid.” He believed that digital currencies were beyond the U.S.’s control and that the country could meet its foreign currency needs through external mining pools. In November 2022, when members of Parliament were criticizing the limitations on rial deposits in domestic crypto exchanges, Ghaderi emphasized in an interview with Tasnim that the Parliament had recognized the importance of cryptocurrencies and that valuable opportunities must be properly utilized.
He criticized the Central Bank’s restrictive policies: “Unfortunately, we are witnessing concerns about restrictions on the amount of cryptocurrency transactions. These actions will have consequences, and any decision that causes national data and information to be directed abroad and jeopardizes national security in the long term will be strongly pursued in Parliament, committees, and special committees.”
Ghaderi continues to serve as a representative in the 12th term of the Iranian Parliament.
Rahim Zare
Rahim Zare, a member of the Parliament’s Program and Budget Commission, has had differing views on digital currencies, and he cannot be solely categorized as an opponent of cryptocurrencies. He has even expressed support for digital currencies at times. In June 2021, during the discussion of a report by the Minister of Energy regarding the power outages in the country and the role of cryptocurrencies in this matter, Zare said: “We are witnessing the use of miners for cryptocurrency mining in idle industries, which should be regulated. Regulating cryptocurrency mining with miners is one of the issues the Iranian Parliament must address. Given the decrease in rainfall, we will face similar situations in the winter, and specific plans must be made to ensure electricity supply.”
In August 2020, Zare wrote a letter to Mohammad Jafar Montazeri, the then Attorney General of Iran, stating: “The issue of digital currencies has emerged in recent years as one of the significant and undeniable phenomena in the global and national economy. Over the past few months, relevant authorities in the judiciary and Parliament have been trying to organize local activities in this area. Although it is impossible to ignore the role of digital currencies in the country’s economy or remove it entirely, it must be managed. However, the inattention of the Central Bank and other state institutions in addressing this matter has led to chaos in the buying and selling of digital currencies, leaving the public uncertain about which individuals or companies they can trust for transactions. What is urgently alarming in the country’s current economic situation is the effort and facilitation for the outflow of foreign currency from the country through Iranian users’ investments in certain foreign exchange sites, often referred to as foreign cryptocurrency exchanges. These exchanges facilitate a massive outflow of funds and enable foreign companies to deny Iranian users the ability to withdraw and transfer funds under the pretext of international sanctions. According to reports, more than 60% of users on one such unknown and untrustworthy exchange called ‘CoinEx’ are Iranian, and it seems that the platform operates primarily to attract capital from Iranian citizens. These unknown and suspicious foreign exchanges’ widespread advertising and networking efforts have encouraged Iranian users to sign up and create cryptocurrency wallets on these platforms. This trend is certainly fraught with security and economic consequences. Therefore, I urgently request that this matter be reviewed and necessary orders be issued to block these foreign cryptocurrency exchanges to prevent the continuation of this harmful and dangerous trend.”
Zare mentioned Iranian users on CoinEx due to their difficulties accessing other exchanges because of sanctions. CoinEx was the only international exchange that, besides supporting the Persian language, officially announced it welcomed Iranian users and accepted Iranian passports for identity verification. However, cryptocurrency activists have warned about CoinEx, as companies providing services to sanctioned countries face many restrictions. The fact that a foreign exchange would accept Iranian users was suspicious. Furthermore, after identity verification became mandatory on Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, many Iranian users moved to CoinEx. Ultimately, due to concerns about the risks for Iranian users, CoinEx was blocked in October 2021.
Opposition to the Blocking Payment Gateways for Domestic Exchange Platforms
Despite this, Zare was not completely opposed to digital currencies. As the head of the Resistance Economy Committee, in December 2021, he commented on the Central Bank’s directive regarding blocking payment gateways for domestic cryptocurrency exchanges. In an interview with ISNA, he stated: “The Central Bank has issued a directive to block the payment gateways of domestic cryptocurrency exchange platforms. Despite their several years of experience, domestic cryptocurrency platforms have been exposed to hardships, lawlessness, crises, and significant obstacles. Along with these challenges, the efforts of foreign exchanges to encourage Iranian citizens to invest abroad have resulted in capital flight from Iran, and this process is exacerbated by blocking the payment gateways of domestic exchanges. The mismanagement by some officials leads to a massive influx of users investing in foreign exchanges and an increase in underground and black-market transactions in this sector.” This Parliament’s Program and Budget Commission member further emphasized: “It is impossible to ignore the issue of digital currencies in our country’s economy or eliminate it entirely, and it must be managed quickly and legally. Blocking payment gateways and irrationally restricting domestic cryptocurrency platforms will undoubtedly have serious security and economic consequences for the country.”
He also criticized the imposition of a 25 million Toman deposit limit for domestic cryptocurrency exchanges in November 2023. He described the move as unprofessional and stated: “The main issue with cryptocurrencies is to use the potential for the country, its people, and businesses. We should not allow irrational restrictions to affect these capabilities. Cryptocurrencies could be our advantage in the digital economy.” According to Zare, “People and experts have the right to be concerned about the expansion of cryptocurrency activities in other countries in the region, and the government’s responsibility is to pay specialized attention to this area so that we do not fall behind in the economic war.”
Zare is also one of the elected representatives in the 12th Parliament of Iran.
Mostafa Taheri
“Mostafa Taheri,” the Deputy Chair of the Industry and Mines Commission of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, supports digital currencies. In December 2021, in response to the Central Bank’s blocking of payment gateways for certain Iranian cryptocurrency exchanges and their requirement to obtain a digital certificate (E-namad), he described this move as equivalent to the closure of internet businesses, halting innovation, and causing widespread disruption to the digital economy. He stated: “If the current trend continues and the activities of cryptocurrency platforms are obstructed, it will lead to a surge of Iranian users migrating to foreign exchanges.”
He also criticized the imposition of restrictions on Rial deposits for cryptocurrency exchanges. In November 2023, in an interview with Borna news agency, Taheri stated: “According to the expert reports we have received in Parliament, a large number of people in the country are using cryptocurrencies, and this sector has become widely used by the public. It has become a unique opportunity in Iran that we must use wisely to foster development and progress. Given the widespread use among the public, any non-expert and hasty restrictions will harm the country and its people, which has caused concern in Parliament.”
This member of Parliament emphasized the importance of cryptocurrencies in the country: “The critical issue for the Islamic Republic of Iran is that, for various reasons, we are in an economic war. In this war, our enemies and regional rivals strengthen their economic bases and use all infrastructure, capital, knowledge, and technology. Negative perspectives and restrictions some institutions create against cryptocurrency users amid an economic war are forms of self-sabotage. The blockchain and cryptocurrency sector is currently at the cutting edge of technology, and neglecting it will cause the country to fall behind nations like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and others.” Taheri added, “The concerns of cryptocurrency experts and users regarding restrictions, such as the Central Bank’s limitation on Rial deposits in domestic platforms, are completely logical. Any restriction directs users toward insecure foreign platforms, which poses dangerous consequences for the people and the country. Parliament opposes any decision that causes the outflow of national capital and jeopardizes the people’s assets. We have and will continue to issue necessary warnings to the government in this regard.”
Mostafa Taheri will also be part of the 12th term of Parliament, which begins its work in June 2024.
Robert Beglarian
“Robert Beglarian” was one of the more cautious members of Parliament regarding digital currencies. In April 2021, in an interview with Borna, he explained his concerns about the energy consumption of digital currencies: “One of our serious concerns is that, due to the cheap energy in the country, if necessary precautions are not taken, there could be a rush of mining operations to Iran. In fact, because of this cheap energy, high-consumption, low-quality mining machines have entered the country, which will certainly cause economic problems and strain the electricity supply for the country.” This member of Parliament also advised the public: “I tell the people that as long as there are no clear laws and mechanisms to protect their rights if they take risks, it is on their account. When an issue arises that the government or Parliament becomes sensitive to, it must be addressed. Still, legislation is not easy or quick and requires time and thorough expertise. Therefore, people must be cautious and avoid getting into trouble until a comprehensive and complete law is established.”
This member of the Energy Commission also stated: “Since cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are complex and multifaceted, it would be better to form a joint commission of the Economic and Energy Commissions to address all aspects of the issue, including energy supply, electricity, pricing, legal, financial, banking matters, etc.”
Fereydoon Abbasi Davani
One of the more unusual claims about cryptocurrencies came from a conversation with “Fereydoon Abbasi Davani,” the head of the Energy Commission of Parliament, as reported by ILNA. He claimed that some individuals had turned poultry and cattle farms into cryptocurrency mining factories by installing mining equipment. He called for more oversight of these operations and stated that such actions had caused multiple issues in poultry and cattle farms. However, these statements were met with reactions from experts who pointed out that Bitcoin mining in poultry and cattle farms is not feasible because these production units’ electricity and internet consumption levels electricity and internet consumption levels are known. A sudden change in these factors would indicate a shift in usage. This is especially true for activities like cryptocurrency mining, which significantly increases electricity and internet usage. Even “Habib Asadollahnejad,” the Vice President of the Association of Meat Poultry Farmers, stated that the possibility of such a change in usage in poultry and cattle farms is almost zero, given the known levels of electricity and internet consumption.
